RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) -Unilateral

RIRS – Unilateral is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat kidney stones located within the kidney. It involves the use of a flexible ureteroscope to access and remove or break up the stones without the need for any incisions.

Who Needs RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) – Unilateral:

RIRS – Unilateral is typically recommended for individuals with kidney stones within a single kidney. It may be suitable for patients with stones that are too large or located in a difficult-to-reach area for other non-invasive treatments. The decision to undergo RIRS – Unilateral will be based on factors such as stone size, location, composition, and overall health.

When to See a Specialist:

Suppose you experience symptoms such as severe pain in the side or back, blood in the urine, frequent urination, or difficulty urinating. In that case, it is recommended to see a specialist, such as a urologist, who can evaluate your condition and determine if RIRS-Unilateral is a suitable treatment option.

Procedure

• Anesthesia: RIRS – Unilateral is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
• Accessing the Kidney: A thin, flexible ureteroscope is passed through the urethra and bladder to reach the affected kidney.
• Visualizing the Stones: The ureteroscope is advanced into the kidney, allowing the surgeon to visualize the stones on a monitor.
• Stone Removal/Breaking: Specialized tools, such as laser fibers or small baskets, are used to remove or break up kidney stones.
• Draining the Kidney: A temporary ureteral stent may be placed to facilitate drainage of the kidney and prevent blockage.
• Completion: Once the stones have been adequately treated, the instruments are removed, and the procedure is completed.

Road to Recovery:

After RIRS – Unilateral, you will typically spend a short time in a recovery area before being discharged from the hospital. It is normal to experience some mild discomfort and blood in the urine for a few days. Your doctor will provide instructions on pain management, fluid intake, and any dietary restrictions. Most individuals can resume normal activities within a few days to a week, depending on their recovery progress.

Risk Management:

As with any surgical procedure, RIRS – Unilateral carries some risks and potential complications. These may include bleeding, infection, ureteral injury, or the need for additional procedures. Your healthcare team will take precautions to minimize these risks and provide appropriate post-operative care.

Benefits of RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) – Unilateral:

• Minimally Invasive: RIRS – Unilateral is a minimally invasive procedure that avoids the need for incisions, resulting in less pain, reduced scarring, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgeries.
• Effective Stone Treatment: RIRS – Unilateral is highly effective in treating kidney stones, regardless of their size or location within the kidney.
• Preserves Kidney Function: RIRS – Unilateral allows for the removal or fragmentation of kidney stones while preserving the normal function of the kidney.
• Reduced Complications: The risk of complications associated with RIRS – Unilateral is generally lower compared to more invasive surgical techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is RIRS – Unilateral?

RIRS – Unilateral is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat kidney stones located within a single kidney. It involves using a flexible ureteroscope to access and remove or break up the stones.

2. Who is a candidate for RIRS – Unilateral?

Individuals with kidney stones located within a single kidney may be candidates for RIRS – Unilateral. It is often considered when other non-invasive treatments are not suitable or effective.

3. Is RIRS – Unilateral a painful procedure?

RIRS – Unilateral is performed under anesthesia, so you will not experience any pain during the procedure. However, some mild discomfort or soreness may be present after the surgery, which can be managed with pain medications prescribed by your doctor.

4. What are the benefits of RIRS – Unilateral?

RIRS – Unilateral offers several benefits, including:

• The minimally invasive procedure with no incisions, resulting in less pain and scarring.
• Effective treatment for kidney stones of various sizes and locations.
• Preservation of kidney function.
• Reduced risk of complications compared to more invasive surgical techniques.

5. What is the recovery time after RIRS – Unilateral?

The recovery time after RIRS – Unilateral varies depending on individual factors and the complexity of the procedure. In general, most patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few days to a week after the surgery.

6. Are there any risks or complications associated with RIRS – Unilateral?

Like any surgical procedure, RIRS – Unilateral carries some risks. These may include bleeding, infection, ureteral injury, or the need for additional treatments. Your healthcare provider will discuss these potential risks with you and take appropriate measures to minimize them.

7. Will I have a stent after RIRS – Unilateral?

In some cases, a temporary ureteral stent may be placed after RIRS – Unilateral to aid in kidney drainage and prevent obstruction. Your doctor will determine if a stent is necessary based on your specific condition.